Since its inception, ATI’s global outreach program, originally tabbed as ATI Mission Works, has provided medical care to communities around the globe where access is unreachable and resources are limited. To no surprise, the program has enjoyed a tremendous amount of success and paralleled growth, so much, that it became necessary for us to take a step back and readjust focus in order to better address the needs of our teams and communities we serve. Among these changes, we decided to freshen up our identity to something that better symbolizes our range of capabilities. With this, we are excited to unveil an all-new identity – ATI Global Reach.
While our name has obviously changed, our passion, integrity and spirit remain unbreakable and resilient as ever. Together with our name change, there are several other exciting things in store for the Global Reach program.
In the past, Global Reach has seen tremendous success in mission trips due in large part to the ATI employees that get involved. By having participants that express the same passion, integrity and spirit that proudly represents what ATI stands for, we can provide those in need with the treatment and help they deserve. The Global Reach program looks to continue its growth, develop new strategies, and find more ways to give back every day. We recently met up with Global Reach leader, Shanna Obluck, to see what’s in store for this exciting outreach program.
What prompted the re-branding of the program?
As the program has grown over the past six years since inception, we felt that the name no longer accurately reflected the program. Global Reach presents a much clearer picture that this program goes beyond just the clinics and communities that ATI currently exists. We believe that by changing our name to ATI Global Reach and focusing on the terminology of service trips, people can more quickly identify with the purpose of the program.
What is the purpose/goal of the Global Reach program?
Our staff consists of generous, service-minded professionals. The Global Reach program is a nice complement to other ATI philanthropic efforts and gives our team another outlet to utilize their skills and give back. As the program has grown, ATI employees have expressed interest in service trips to underserved populations around the world. This program provides a fulfilling benefit for employees to be involved in international service work.
How does one get involved?
If you’re interested in getting involved, you can register for an upcoming trip. If you’re unsure about joining a trip, individuals can give back by hosting supply drives in their clinics for ace bandages, crutches, walkers, wheel chairs, or any other new or gently used medical equipment that can be sent to our partner organizations. Most of our partners have limited access to medical equipment so these supply drives are a huge help in stocking their clinics.
Can anyone join, or is it only limited to ATI employees?
Anyone can join a trip. In fact, we’ve had past participants that are ATI employees bring a family member or friend on the trip. However, we do give preference to ATI employees since we started this program as a benefit for ATI team members.
Is the program national/international/both?
The program has been international for the past six years, however, we are currently exploring an opportunity within the US at a Native American Reservation in South Dakota. While we love working with communities in developing countries such as Guatemala, we understand that there are underserved populations within the US that need our help.
What does a typical day on a trip entail?
All of our trips differ depending on the community we’re working with, the group we’re taking, and the focus of the trip. A “typical” day of service starts early so more time can be spent in the community treating patients, training local PTs, or building/rehabbing the clinic we’re at. Most days of the trip are focused on the service work, and, without fail, our participants reflect that they feel they received more every day than they gave.
How does one prepare for a Global Reach trip?
We do our best to prepare participants by hosting calls, providing checklists, and following up with emails. Individuals that feel the most prepared for a trip are the ones that ask questions and review all the forms, emails and checklists. It’s also beneficial to attend the trip prep calls. Another great way to prepare is to expect the unexpected. Things won’t always go as planned, so don’t get frustrated when an inevitable hiccup in the plan arises.
If you’d like to learn more about the Global Reach program or how to get involved, please contact us at ATIGlobalReach@atipt.com